Alleyn’s vs Emanuel: Which Co-Ed School Is Right for Your Child?

When families compare co-educational independent schools in London, Alleyn’s School and Emanuel School are often considered together. Both offer strong academics, rich extracurricular programmes, and 11+ entry, but they differ in admissions, school culture, day-to-day logistics, and fit for individual children. This guide provides a detailed, practical comparison to help parents make informed decisions for 11+ school preparation.

Admissions: Places, Competition, and Sibling Priority

Emanuel School offers around 96 external Year 7 places out of a total year group of 144 pupils. Around 600 candidates typically register each year. Applicants sit written exams in English, Maths, and Verbal Reasoning, followed by interviews and group tasks for shortlisted students. Sibling priority applies if the child meets the academic criteria.

Alleyn’s School offers around 100 external Year 7 places, with competition exceeding the number of places. Internal pupils from Alleyn’s Junior or Oakfield streams usually transition automatically if standards are met. Sibling priority exists, but entry is still conditional on meeting the required academic standards. Both schools are selective. Emanuel’s structured registration and interview process manages demand, while Alleyn’s applicant-to-place ratio is typically higher, increasing competitive pressure for external applicants.

Academic Performance: GCSE and A-Level Results

Emanuel School has improved sharply in recent years. In 2024, 89% of GCSE grades were 9–7 and 64% of A‑levels were A–A*. Many pupils progress to Russell Group universities, including Oxbridge and medical courses. The Good Schools Guide notes: “Emanuel of the present is an astonishing evolution… results have improved exponentially, with consequent rise up league tables.”

Alleyn’s School consistently delivers strong academic performance. In 2025, 95 % of GCSE exams were graded 9–7 and 79 % of A‑Levels were A–A*. Many leavers progress to Russell Group universities, including Oxbridge. The Good Schools Guide describes the school as “impressive academic results and outstanding opportunities on every front.”

11+ Exams, Interviews, and Scholarships

Emanuel School

• Exams include English, Maths, and Verbal/Non-Verbal Reasoning. English focuses on comprehension and concise writing; Maths emphasizes accuracy and problem-solving.
• Interviews and group tasks assess curiosity, confidence, and structured reasoning.
• Scholarships are offered for academics, music, sports, and the arts.

Alleyn’s School

• Exams include English, Maths, and Verbal/Non-Verbal Reasoning, often with longer written responses and more complex problem-solving.
• Interviews evaluate creativity, initiative, and the ability to articulate reasoning.
• Scholarships cover academics, music, and sports. Means-tested bursaries are available.

Preparation insight: Emanuel rewards structured reasoning and teamwork, while Alleyn’s rewards initiative, creativity, and articulate expression. Tailored 11+ preparation can give children a confident advantage.

Extracurricular Life and Opportunities

Emanuel School encourages students to explore a wide range of activities, including sports, music, rowing, drama, and clubs. Participation is high, and the school balances breadth with depth.

Alleyn’s School provides extensive extracurricular opportunities, with over 200 clubs, competitive sports like cricket, football, and water polo, and strong music and drama programmes. Both schools support well-rounded development beyond academics.

Travel and Practical Considerations Location

• Emanuel is in Battersea, accessible from Clapham, Wandsworth, and South London by car, public transport, or cycling.
• Alleyn’s is in Dulwich, with longer journeys possible from central or south-west London depending on route.

School Buses

• Emanuel operates bus services covering South & West London.
• Alleyn’s provides school buses with multiple routes across south London.

Annual Tuition Fees

• Emanuel School: ~£24,789 per year (2025–26) (emanuel.org.uk)
• Alleyn’s School: ~£25,845 per year excluding VAT, ~£31,014 per year including VAT (2025–26) (alleyns.org.uk)

Choosing Between Emanuel and Alleyn’s?

Parents should consider:

1. Academic environment: Alleyn’s is highly demanding; Emanuel balances strong academics with a structured, supportive approach.
2. Admissions pressure: Emanuel has a managed application process; Alleyn’s can be more competitive per place.
3. Sibling and internal feeder effects: Both schools provide sibling priority; Alleyn’s internal transitions are generally guaranteed if standards are met.
4. Culture and extracurriculars: Emanuel offers breadth with a balanced approach; Alleyn’s provides scale and competitive opportunities.
5. Travel and commute: Consider journey time, public transport access, and school bus availability.

Quick Comparison Table

Conclusion

Both Emanuel and Alleyn’s are excellent co-educational options in London. Emanuel has strengthened academically while maintaining a structured, nurturing environment. Alleyn’s offers traditional academic excellence and a wide, competitive co-curricular programme. The right choice depends on your child’s academic strengths, temperament, extracurricular interests, and practical considerations such as travel and tuition.